Barry Co., MO – 17-Year-Old Killed in Crash East of Cassville

Barry County, MO (February 21, 2026) – A tragic vehicle accident claimed the life of a teenager on Saturday night, February 21, on MO 76, approximately four miles east of Cassville. The Missouri State Highway Patrol responded to the scene after reports of a vehicle striking a tree.

According to crash investigators, a 2009 Honda Accord was traveling along Highway 76 when the 24-year-old female driver lost control, causing the vehicle to run off the roadway and collide with a tree.

A 17-year-old female passenger in the vehicle sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was transported by emergency personnel to Mercy Hospital in Springfield for treatment.

The Highway Patrol is currently investigating the factors that led to the accident.

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the loved ones of the teenager who lost her life in this tragic accident. We also wish the injured person a rapid recovery.

Options for families of a passenger killed in a crash in Missouri

When a passenger is killed in an accident, their family often faces the challenging task of pursuing a claim against the driver’s insurance. Your priority should be understanding that insurance is there specifically for this purpose: to provide financial support for your loss, and identifying all available policies that can help cover final expenses.

In Missouri, the driver of a vehicle has a legal responsibility to ensure the safety of their passengers. If a driver loses control and strikes an object, their auto liability insurance is the primary source of compensation for the passenger’s family.

While it can feel emotionally difficult to file a claim when the driver is someone you might know, it is important to remember that you are seeking support from the insurance company, not from that person.

If the driver’s insurance limits are too low to provide meaningful support for your loss, you may be able to turn to your own family's auto insurance policy. Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage is designed to bridge the gap.

A professional can review your family's policies to see if you have "stacked" coverage or other benefits that apply to family members, even if they were a passenger in someone else’s car.

A lawyer can handle all communication with the insurance adjusters so you can focus on your emotional recovery. This ensures that the claim is handled efficiently and that you receive the maximum support available under the law, while allowing you to focus on honoring the memory of your loved one.

Losing a child or a young family member in a crash is an unimaginable tragedy. At The Dunk Law Firm, we can help you explore every available option to ensure your family is supported during this time.

To speak with a wrongful death lawyer, call us today at 414-209-4398 and get the help that you need during this challenging time.

Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. We have not independently verified all details of the incident. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Dunk Law Firm so we can promptly review and correct the content for accuracy and reliability.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship nor constitute a solicitation for legal services. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek immediate medical attention and consult a qualified attorney. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the actual scene or parties involved in the incident.